Three hours later, they stood in the park across from the church. Other than a few broken branches and the damp grass, no sign of the storm remained. The air smelled fresh-washed, and the sun shone in a cloudless blue sky. All in all, a perfect day for a rally in the park.
Keir and Riley watched as two of Lucy’s volunteers finished attaching steps to a small modular stage, only about five feet square, but adequate for two people to stand on in comfort. A battery-powered PA system with a microphone lay at the top of the steps, waiting for the guest speakers to use. Everything was ready—all they needed was an audience.
People started trickling in a few at a time. Many strolled about just enjoying the beautiful day, but the stage seemed to pique their interest, so they lingered. Keir recogn
